Gelada (Theropithecus gelada)

MammalPrimateEthiopia

Overview

The gelada (Theropithecus gelada) is a large, shaggy primate found only in the high grasslands of the Ethiopian highlands. Often called the “bleeding-heart monkey,” it is named for the striking patch of bare red skin on its chest — an hourglass shape that is brightest in dominant males and in breeding females. Males also sport a magnificent cape of long brown hair. Though commonly called a monkey, the gelada is the last surviving species of its genus, once far more widespread.

Geladas are unusual among primates for being dedicated grazers: they spend their days sitting on alpine meadows, plucking and chewing grass, and they live in some of the largest gatherings of any primate.

Note: details here cover the gelada as a species; treat general statements as approximate and verify against authoritative sources.

Habitat & Range

Geladas live only in the Ethiopian highlands, in open alpine grassland and montane meadows at high elevation, often near steep cliffs and gorges. They graze on the grassy plateaus by day and retreat to sleep on cliff ledges at night, where the steep rock keeps them safe from predators.

Diet

The gelada is the most herbivorous and grass-dependent of all primates. Grass — both the blades and the underground parts such as roots, bulbs, and rhizomes — makes up the great bulk of its diet, supplemented by seeds, herbs, and the occasional insect. Geladas have strong hands suited to rapidly picking grass, and small, efficient chewing teeth, and they spend many hours a day seated and feeding, shuffling along on their rumps as they graze.

Behavior

Geladas have a complex, layered society. The basic unit is a small group of related females with one dominant male and sometimes a few followers; many of these units come together into bands, and bands can aggregate into herds of hundreds of animals — among the largest groupings of any primate. They are highly vocal and “chatty,” using a rich range of calls and lip movements to communicate, and the bright chest patch signals status and reproductive condition without the need for the rump displays seen in many other primates (handy for an animal that sits all day). Strong males defend their females from rivals, and bachelor males form their own groups.

Human Interaction & Conservation

Geladas are a famous sight in Ethiopia's highlands, including in the Simien Mountains, where they are relatively approachable and draw wildlife tourism. They can come into conflict with farmers where they feed on crops, and they depend on intact highland grassland, so habitat loss and human pressure are the main long-term concerns. They remain reasonably numerous overall. Consult the IUCN Red List for current status.

More photos of the gelada